Jake’s Insider Neighborhood Guide: Croatan, Virginia Beach
The Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood is a true treasure. For those who want direct Atlantic Ocean access but a quieter area than the tourism-centric area of the city, Croatan offers a fantastic option. It is far more exclusive, with its hidden entrance close to Rudee Inlet and luxury single-family homes and beach cottages. Peaceful but vibrant, naturally beautiful, and dog-friendly, the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood has much to offer today’s home buyer.
- Life in Croatan, Virginia Beach: Community Overview
- Jake: Living in Timberlake, Virginia Beach
- Jake’s Top Things to Do in Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Jake’s Local Favorites & Best Restaurants in Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Local Health Care
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
- Shopping Centers Near Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
- Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
- View Properties In Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Top Reasons To Live In Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Ask Jake: Your Insider to Croatan, Virginia Beach
- Frequently Asked Questions About Timberlake, Virginia Beach
- Virginia Beach Neighborhoods
- Contact Jake Maines Today!
Life in Croatan, Virginia Beach: Community Overview
roatan is a residential neighborhood with direct access to the ocean from Croatan Beach. That’s a popular, but more locally known destination for swimming and surfing. Beach access sets the tone for this area, with exceptional quality of life, a remote feel, and outstanding boating options. If you’re hoping for an expansive home with excellent views of the waterfront, you’ll find them here.
At the same time, and as much of a secluded area as this community feels like, it is still a short drive to the main Virginia Beach area’s retail, dining, and beaches. It’s separated from the main area by a small inlet. This exclusive-feel community, which is just south of the Rudee Inlet, north of Camp Pendleton, is about a 20-minute drive to most of the region’s amenities. If you want to be able to head to the Boardwalk for a relaxing day on the water or take the boat out sailing on Back Bay, it’s all easy to do from this community. And then, after your day, you can head back to your private beach community that seems completely tucked away.
In this guide to the best Virginia Beach neighborhoods, we’ll break down what life is actually like living here and give you insight into whether you’ll want to buy a home in this area.
Jake: Living in Timberlake, Virginia Beach
In the heart of Virginia Beach, Timberlake stands as a neighborhood that blends the warmth of home with the pulse of city life. Here, I took the first step in my home-ownership journey at age 22, a decision that I look back on with a heart full of gratitude. I wanted something in a quiet neighborhood but that still had easy access to the beach and the energy of Virginia Beach. I couldn’t of been happier and continue to call Timberlake, Virginia Beach my home.
Timberlake is great for families and individuals, offering a range of housing options from single-family detached homes to welcoming townhomes. Its strategic location means you are never far from the best Virginia Beach offers. A short and pleasant walk will take you to the refreshing landscapes of Mount Trashmore. This place has become my personal sanctuary for morning jogs, offering breathtaking views that invigorate me.
But the beauty of Timberlake goes beyond its scenic surroundings. It is a community where friendship blossoms and neighbors become family. The affordability of homes in this area is an opportunity for many families to lay down roots in a tranquil place but still be connected to the vibrant city life of Virginia Beach.
As your trusted Virginia Beach realtor, I can personally vouch for the rich experiences that Timberlake offers. From the delightful restaurants, great parks, and bustling Virginia Beach town center, everything is just a short drive away, promising convenience and a tapestry of experiences.
I invite you to explore Timberlake, a neighborhood that has been my home and where I’ve built beautiful memories. Let me guide you to find your dream home in this beautiful neighborhood.
Jake’s Top Things to Do in Croatan, Virginia Beach
If you’re one of the many people who visit the city of Virginia Beach, perhaps staying in one of the rentals on the beach and falling in love with the area enough to move here, Croatan will continue to give you the vibe you’re craving in a home here. It’s a unique location and, in many ways, one of the best beachfront neighborhoods in the city. Buying a home here enables you to enjoy the outdoors as much as you like. Here are a few of the best things to do in Croatan, Virginia Beach.
The Oceanfront
If you’re looking at a map, you’ll notice that the main Virginia Beach oceanfront area is just to the north of the Croatan area. But there’s a small inlet that separates the Croatan area, and that inlet creates a significant difference in the vibe. What you get is a surf culture destination with beautiful beaches, ocean breezes, and a quieter local vibe. It has far less crowded areas than Virginia Beach Oceanfront beaches, and tourists often don’t make their way down here. Still, when you feel the need for a walk on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, it’s just a short drive there, too.
Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
One of the best things to do in Croatan, Virginia Beach, happens to be a visit (or routine visits!) to the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center. It’s an excellent location for hands-on learning about the ecosystem and diversity of the entire region. There are self-guided tours to enjoy, but lots of educational programs with options for most ages. Conservation, biodiversity, and marine paleobiology are the primary areas of focus in the area – a special gem in the area.
Owls Creek Boat Launch
It may seem strange to mention it, but the Owls Creek Boat Launch is one of the best reasons to live in this area. It’s just a few minutes away. You can push off a boat into the water here for free (which isn’t always something most people think about when moving to the area). There are four concrete boat launches here that give you direct access to Rudee Inlet and the Atlantic Ocean. Notably, there are other areas where you can get into the water, especially for kayaking and surfing. For boats, though, this is an excellent benefit to the local Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood.
Jake’s Local Favorites & Best Restaurants in Croatan, Virginia Beach
It’s really only a short walk along the Boardwalk to find great food in Virginia Beach, but in Croatan, you’ll need to drive a few minutes away. The beachfront is the heart of this neighborhood in the South End of Virginia Beach. Yet, the following are some of the best restaurants in Croatan, Virginia Beach, within a few minutes of most homes.
Taqueria Jessy’s – Mexican – 4.4 Stars - $
A super fun and upbeat destination, Taqueria Jessy’s is a Mexican restaurant known for its hospitality and good food. Listen to the music, perhaps dance a bit, and enjoy huge portions. Don’t forget their cocktails and margaritas.
Angelo’s – Italian – 4.6 Stars - $$
Located just a few minutes away is Angelo’s, an Italian restaurant noted for its homemade sauces and pizzas. It has a full menu, making it a great option for everything from a family dinner to picking up a few pies on your way home after the beach. It’s wonderful, tasty comfort food, and that makes it one of the best restaurants in Croatan, Virginia Beach, for families.
Angelo’s – Italian – 4.6 Stars - $$
Located just a few minutes away is Angelo’s, an Italian restaurant noted for its homemade sauces and pizzas. It has a full menu, making it a great option for everything from a family dinner to picking up a few pies on your way home after the beach. It’s wonderful, tasty comfort food, and that makes it one of the best restaurants in Croatan, Virginia Beach, for families.
Operation Brew – Coffee and bakery – 4.7 Stars - $$
Operation Brew is your go-to coffee shop and bakery. It’s perfect for breakfast on your way into work or for any reason. It’s also a nice place to catch up with friends or even get a bit of work done. The menu is great in terms of freshly made goodies. If you want the best restaurant in Croatan, Virginia Beach, for local chats, this family-owned location is excellent.
Lendy’s Cafe – Wings and Bar Food – 4.4 Stars - $
Lendy’s is a beloved local spot, serving up their iconic “world famous wings” since 1987, complete with their signature homemade ranch dressing. Popular for its energetic, sports-bar vibe, the cafe features 5 craft beers on tap, multiple large TVs playing NFL and MLB games, and a standout She-Crab soup. Locals especially praise its flavorful wings, casual atmosphere, and friendly service—perfect for catching a game or grabbing a satisfying bite.
Lendy’s Cafe – Wings and Bar Food – 4.4 Stars - $
Lendy’s is a beloved local spot, serving up their iconic “world famous wings” since 1987, complete with their signature homemade ranch dressing. Popular for its energetic, sports-bar vibe, the cafe features 5 craft beers on tap, multiple large TVs playing NFL and MLB games, and a standout She-Crab soup. Locals especially praise its flavorful wings, casual atmosphere, and friendly service—perfect for catching a game or grabbing a satisfying bite.
Local Health Care
When buying real estate in this area, it’s always a good idea to consider your access to healthcare. Whether it’s surfers suffering injuries or an illness, the following locations are some of the most reliable in the City of Virginia Beach, close to the Croatan area.
Virginia Beach Family Medical Center
For everyday needs, the Virginia Beach Family Medical Center is likely to be your go-to option. It’s conveniently located and a multi-provider location. Your family doctor is likely to be here. It’s only a short drive away.
Sentara Princess Anne Hospital
For emergency medical care along with ongoing support, surgery, and doctor visits, the Sentara Princess Anne Hospital is nearby to the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood. This is a well-respected community hospital that’s noted for providing high-quality and modern care.
Coastal Vet
One of the best things about living in Croatan Beach, Virginia Beach, is that dogs are welcome on the beach from time to time. That opens the door for the need for local vet care, and Coastal Vet is one of the area’s most sought-after locations. It’s a full-service vet providing care for most types of family pets with emergency services and routine care available. Located conveniently on 30th St.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
Shopping Centers Near Croatan, Virginia Beach
When you live in the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood, you’re not going to have many retail locations right next door. However, there are several shopping centers near Croatan, Virginia Beach, that give you access to everything you need, and are close enough to get to within 15 or so minutes. That includes the following.
Regal Strawbridge Marketplace
About 10 minutes to the southwest is Regal Strawbridge Marketplace. It’s a smaller location with movie therapy and some grocery stores. Several restaurants are located in this area, too, like Kelly’s Tavern, The Egg Bistro, and Lucky Oyster Seafood Company. Right along General Booth Blvd, you’ll also have Hickman Place to check out. There are nail and hair salons here, dental offices, and smaller shops.
The Shops at Hilltop
Another option is The Shops at Hilltop. As one of the shopping centers near Croatan, Virginia Beach, you have access to some great upscale options here. This is also a destination for dining and entertainment. A mall-like destination, with shops like Ethan Allen and Fink’s Jewelers, as well as The Fresh Marketplace, it has most of what you need close to home. Target, Trader Joe’s, and numerous other shops are located in this area, too.
Town Center
Town Center is its own urban district shopping and lifestyle center. It’s not specifically in the community, but this is one of the shopping centers near Croatan, Virginia Beach, that is close enough that you’ll want to make a trip out of it. Town Center has everything from Target and Whole Foods to specialty shops, dining destinations, and much more.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
Recreation, Nature & Parks in Croatan, Virginia Beach
As you think about buying a home here, the outdoors are likely at the top of your list of things to do. And, many people buy a home on the beach because they want to enjoy nature at its best. But there are various areas to do so. First, consider that Croatan Beach is the main beach here. It’s open to the public with a municipal parking lot available, with hefty special discounts to Virginia Beach residents and free times of day as well. But, there are a few other destinations (aside from the aquarium) that you’ll want to explore as well.
Lake Christine
Lake Wesley is located nearby, just to the south of Rudee Inlet. It’s one of the best destinations for those who want a lake experience (not just the ocean). Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are all available here. It’s located right to the west of the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood, giving you excellent overall access to the area.
Ocean Breeze
At Ocean Breeze, you have a massive waterpark, one that has 30 slides and attractions. It’s the only water park in the Virginia Beach area and quite a popular option for tourists and locals.Ocean Breeze Waterpark is Virginia Beach’s only full-scale water park, located just 2 miles south of the Oceanfront. This island-themed destination features over 30 water slides and attractions, including a million-gallon wave pool, Neptune’s Revenge—a four-slide monster complex—and Buccaneer Bay, a pirate-themed water playground for children. Guests can also enjoy the quarter-mile Adventure River for a relaxing float. The park offers free parking, inner tubes, and sunscreen, making it a convenient and family-friendly option for summer fun.
Lake Christine
Lake Christine is just to the south of the Croatan, Virginia Beach, neighborhood. It’s perfect for fishing and boating as well. It’s managed by the Croatan Beach Civic League and is only accessible to those who are from Croatan. That gives it more of a peaceful retreat feel for nature lovers, and a special exclusive gift to its residents.
Top Schools Near Croatan, Virginia Beach
Schools will always be a big factor when it comes to choosing a place to live. The good news is that here you are a part of the Virginia Beach City Public School District, giving you access to some really good schools.
W.T. Cooke Elementary School
The local elementary school is W.T. Cooke Elementary School. It’s a thriving school with a 7/10 rating on GreatSchools.org. Good test scores, sports programs, and a gifted program help make it a solid choice.
Virginia Beach Middle School
Most children then progress to Virginia Beach Middle School. It’s an excellent overall choice with an above-average rating. With a 7/10 rating on GreatSchools.org, it has sports and academic programs for students of a range of needs.
First Colonial High School
Most students then transition to First Colonial High School, which is great because most kids stay together throughout their educational journey here. Noted for its AP programs, six sports programs, and gifted programs, this high school has a GreatSchools.org rating of 7/10.
Get Jake’s Local Insights on Red Mill, VB
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with me and ask a question
View Properties In Croatan, Virginia Beach
There are many benefits to buying a home in the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood. It’s close to just about everything, with good schools and waterfront living. In terms of homes, you’ll find a mix of options here, including minimal sq ft condos and townhomes, and some exceptional homes along the North End with estate-like features and private waterfront areas. Why not explore Croatan real estate listings now to see what’s currently on the market?
For comparison, check out our neighborhood insights into Chic’s Beach. It’s close by with a very different feel.
Top Reasons To Live In Croatan, Virginia Beach
With direct Atlantic Ocean access but with a quieter vibe, the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood is an excellent choice for those who want the best of both worlds. It’s a tight-knit community with access to luxury homes in the range of $600,000 to $4.5 million, and it has a remarkable sense of relaxation.
You Love the Water
With two designated surf zones (north and south ends) as well as summer surf camps, you can easily get into the water. There are waves for kayaking and fishing along the lakes, too. When you’re after a coastal lifestyle, this location is wonderful.
Community Feel
From book clubs to lots of outdoor events, such as Spring Fling and the holiday celebrations, there is a strong sense of community in this area. There’s still privacy, but it’s nice to know that you can walk along the tree-lined streets and greet your neighbors by name.
Excellent Resale Value
From a financial perspective, you also have the benefits of buying a home in the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood. Simply, it’s a high-demand area, especially along the oceanfront properties. The area is serene and relaxing, a far different world from the tourism areas up north.
In addition to this, you’re close to NAS Oceana and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, and a thriving economic center in the community. This adds to the overall value and resale value here.
Ask Jake: Your Insider to Croatan, Virginia Beach
Now that you have a great look at all the Croatan, Virginia Beach neighborhood has to offer, it’s time to start looking at the homes for sale. Contact local real estate agent Jake Maines to start the conversation.
Jake Maines, Virginia Beach Realtor
Jake Maines is a Virginia Beach Realtor known for his market knowledge and exceptional client service. His real estate journey, beginning in 2020, showcases a successful transition from marketing to realty and investing, marked by a passion for helping clients find their dream homes. Recognized as one of Inside Business 40 Under 40 and ranking in the top 8% of Hampton Roads Realtors in his first year, Jake's accolades affirm his expertise. A member of NAR and HRRA, he upholds the highest ethical standards. Community involvement and continuous professional development make him a trusted, authoritative Virginia Beach real estate expert.
